In early June, FedEx Kinko's and Adobe announced that Adobe Reader 8.1 and Adobe Acrobat software would feature a connection to FedEx Kinko's Print Online functionality, allowing users to send documents for output to any FedEx Kinko's Office and Print Center in the US. Both products have integrated a 'Send to FedEx Kinko's' command option within the File Menu as well as a button on the main toolbar.

'The integration of FedEx Kinko's Print Online with Adobe Reader and Acrobat provides a seamless connection to our network of digitally connected locations as well as to the FedEx transportation systems,' says Richard Maranville, senior vice president and chief information officer of FedEx Kinko's. [It is] part of our strategy to provide customers with more points of access to FedEx Kinko's products and services. With the integrated functionality, users of these Adobe applications are also able to have their printed material delivered to addresses worldwide.'

Just a few weeks later, however, concerns were raised by print-provider associations around the marketplace, including PIA/GATF, the National Association for Printing Leadership (NAPL), the National Association of Quick Printers (NAQP), and the Digital Imaging Customer Exchange (DICE).

Here are excerpts from statements from each group:

* PIA/GATF: 'When it was discovered that Adobe had made the decision to include a 'send to FedEx Kinko's' button in Adobe Acrobat and Adobe Reader, we felt terribly betrayed by the company who has been supported by the printing industry. We understand the need to make the workflow process as efficient as possible, but Adobe's decision to give up its neutrality and try to align its business with one printer is unacceptable. It is our hope that Adobe's CEO, Bruce Chizen, will realize the mistake that has been made and rectify the situation as soon as possible.